Child and Family Studies, Child Development Option, B.A.

The B.A. in Child and Family Studies allows students to complete their Bachelor’s degree specialized in either Child Development or Family Science and Community Services. As an integrative and interdisciplinary specialization, it provides a comprehensive academic and professional preparation to serve in different roles that influence and enhance the quality of life of children and families. Students may complete coursework within the degree that satisfies the educational requirements for the Child Development (CD) Permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and the Family Life Education certification requirements stipulated by the National Council on Family Relations. Completion of the degree also satisfies the subject matter competence requirement for the California PK-3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential. Separate application and additional state requirements apply. 

Admission Requirements

Admission for Freshman - Admission to Child and Family Studies program requires the following which is consistent to the minimum CSULB freshmen admission eligibility:

1. Complete each of the courses in the comprehensive pattern of college preparatory subject requirements with a grade of C or higher prior to high school graduation.
2. Graduate from high school by the end of the Spring term prior to Fall enrollment.
3. Have a minimum “Eligibility Index,” which combines students’ achievement in high school college preparatory courses with the results of the redesigned SAT, old SAT or ACT.
   1. Graduates of California high schools and other California residents: 3,200 minimum “Eligibility Index” to be considered.
   2. Other non-California residents: 3,570 minimum “Eligibility Index” to be considered.

Transfer Admission - To be considered for transfer admission to CSULB, applicants must demonstrate the following:

1. Minimum Cumulative GPA: 2.5
2. Minimum lower division preparation (grade of C or better required):
   1. Major preparation courses:
      • ANTH 120 - Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
      • PSY 100 - General Psychology
      • CDFS 111- Preschool Child
   2. Required General Education courses not covered by major preparation courses:
      • English Composition
      • Oral Communication
      • Critical Thinking
      • Mathematical Concepts and Quantitative Reasoning